Google Reveals the New Version of Gmail, Wants to Put You Back in Control of Your Inbox

Remember that Gmail redesign that everyone has been talking about? You know the one, it first cropped up in an image that appeared during a Google I/O presentation. Well, it turns out Google finally unveiled the particulars and they’re definitely interesting, to say the least.

As Google puts it, they’ve redesigned the platform to offer “a new inbox that puts you back in control.” Essentially, the inbox will be divided into unique categories for social sites, promotions and deals, Google Play updates and of course your regular inbox.

On the desktop version, new tabs will appear just above the inbox form. Each category is color coded so that it’s easier to spot which emails belong where. In the Android version of Gmail, you’ll still be taken to your primary inbox when you first open the app, but you’ll also have instant access to the other categories.

Don’t worry though, if you’re reluctant to change you can disable the new features entirely. Even better, you can customize the experience and make it your own by setting up unique inbox favorites.

The new features are set to gradually roll out to both desktop and Android users. Some of you may even be able to experience the new features right this moment. If you already have the new version of Gmail, be sure to let us know what you think in the comments below!

According to Google you should be able to try out the new features via the desktop version of Gmail relatively soon:

If you’d like to try out the new inbox on Desktop sooner, keep an eye on the gear menu and select ‘Configure inbox‘ when it appears in the Settings options.

To see all the new stuff in action, check out this promo video from Google. Pretty neat stuff!